Decades ago, I sold my soul to the devil (back when my self-worth was defined by a paycheck). I worked for two hi-tech companies at two different times — translating and writing corporate brochures, patents, and user manuals.

Was it fun? Not really; not for me, anyway. Did the job pay the bills? Yep. Corporate politics — pretty ugly. Was I miserable — absolutely!

I DESERVED IT!

(Humans are resilient. Many unhappy workers go about their jobs. Most things are possible when we apply ourselves).

Over the years, my paycheck has taken a steady decline (currently, I’m a part-time Instructional Assistant working 30 hours per week). In return, I’ve acquired time, happiness, and fulfillment (teach, then go home to my family. It’s the best)!

(Full time [veteran] teachers work 60-80+ hours. My hats off to them. That’s a whole another story, a whole another post.)

I am blessed with a husband (who lets me be me) and two sons (all three, the love of my life). I wake up every morning — eager to start the day — to learn about the world and insights my grade school students await to share. We read, learn, and grow — together!

Establishing heart-to-heart-connection with children, working with caring adults to make our world a better place, I know, is my calling. I can eat, breathe, and sleep kids and education!

I once left this profession for more money; exchanged passion for misery. Luckily, a force much greater than myself pulled me back — where I belong — and for that, I am eternally grateful.

“If you can get paid for doing what you love, every paycheck is a bonus.” Right on, Oprah!